5 Heart Health Myths

On the last page, we mentioned that age is one risk factor for heart problems; as you get older, you have a greater likelihood of things like heart disease or heart attack. But that doesn't mean that heart health is a concern only for middle-aged people. It's possible to start developing coronary artery disease as a teenager, and people in their 20s and 30s have suffered from heart attacks. A heart-healthy lifestyle needs to begin in childhood, so that kids don't develop bad habits they carry with them to adulthood. To give children the best possible heart start, parents should encourage them to exercise, limit time spent in front of the television or computer screen, and serve healthy, well-balanced meals. And if you're a parent looking to jump-start a sedentary child, the best thing to do is to set a good example and get moving yourself. Making exercise and healthy eating a family priority will go a long way to ensuring long-term heart health.